Brake Controller, Hitch and Wiring for 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Question:

We are considering purchasing a trailer camper, and the salesman mentioned Id need a brake controller. It is a Coachman Clipper pop up trailer, and I believe it has a 7 way connector. I currently dont have any tow package at all on the Jeep, so I know Ill need the hitch receiver and wiring. I was going to buy the 1. Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2inch 2. Curt T-Connector Vehicle Wiring Harness with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector But upon further review, I noticed I needed to by the brake controller and since I dont have a tow package now, they all of them referred me to also buying the Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires. My question is...does the universal kit for trailer take the place of the 4-pole wiring harness or do I need both? Also...what brake controller do you recommend for my application? So I need to know all the items Ill need to take a no tow package at all, to a can haul any trailer or camper. Thank you

asked by: Scott C

Expert Reply:

To start with, the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch # DT78MR would be a great choice for your 2017 Jeep Wrangler with a standard rear bumper; it is a Class III hitch with a 675 lb tongue weight capacity and 4,500 lb towing capacity.

In terms of a brake controller, you will need both a 4-way and the # ETBC7 kit as they work together. I recommend going with the Tekonsha # 118416 for your Jeep, as they have been highly reliable in terms of their wiring products.

The Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controllers # ETBC7 kit is required as well and will give you the rest of your wiring, including a 7-way and 4-way connector and circuit breakers.

As for the brake controller itself, I strongly recommend the Prodigy P3 # 90195; it is the most popular model we carry due to its effectiveness and ease of use. It will activate your trailer's brakes immediately in proportion to your Jeep's brakes and offers three different boost levels so you can adjust your braking power.

The P3 levels automatically, has constant diagnostic checks, contains safeguards which defend your controller against shorts, and features an LCD display which is much easier to read than that of other controllers. This controller has been met with nearly universal praise; it has been reviewed by our customers more than 2,000 times and is averaging close to 5 out of 5 stars.

Additionally, since you are going to be towing, I recommend checking out Ball Mount Kit # 989900, which may fulfill your towing needs in one tidy package; two ball mounts - one with a 3/4” rise or 2” drop and the other with a 2-3/4” rise or 4” drop - a 1-7/8” hitch ball, a 2” hitch ball, and a pin and clip.

You can use the link to the help article on ball mounts I've added to determine if this kit will give you the correct amount of drop or rise. I've also attached a link to our page with each of our ball mounts and hitch balls.